© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©
Flavor-Packed Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice 🌶️🍚🥩
1. Introduction
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food that combines vibrant vegetables with hearty fillings, making them an ideal choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal. This recipe for stuffed peppers features tender bell peppers stuffed with flavorful ground beef and perfectly cooked rice, all seasoned with herbs and spices to create a dish bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe delivers in both taste and presentation. Discover the art of making delicious ground beef peppers that will impress everyone at your table.
2. Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Rinse and set aside.
Cooking the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Mixing the Ingredients
Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Stuffing the Bell Peppers
Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each hollowed bell pepper, filling them generously. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Baking the Stuffed Peppers
Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnishing and Serving
Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve hot, perhaps alongside a side salad or a piece of crusty bread.
4. Storage Tips
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze individual peppers for up to 3 months—just thaw before reheating.
5. Serving Suggestions
Pair these stuffed peppers with a light side salad for a balanced meal. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner, consider serving with homemade French onion soup pizza. For dessert, something sweet like chocolate croissant breakfast bake would complement the meal perfectly.
6. FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish healthier by using ground turkey or chicken, which works well with the same seasonings and fillings.
What type of rice should I use?
Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives for added nutrition.
How long does it take to prepare this stuffed peppers recipe?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour, making it a fairly quick and easy dinner option.
Can I prepare these peppers ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the stuffed peppers and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if refrigerated.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — this versatile appliance can quickly reheat leftovers or cook other components of your meal with ease.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — ensure your pots and pans provide even heat and effortless release for cooking rice and sautéing.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — perfect for versatile cooking, grilling vegetables or reheating leftovers.
8. Conclusion
This recipe for stuffed bell peppers with ground beef and rice is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful, and visually appealing meal. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite. Whether served for weeknight dinners or special occasions, they combine satisfying ingredients with vibrant presentation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect combination of browning, seasoning, and cheesy goodness in every bite. For more kitchen inspiration, explore other delicious ideas like our festive bread or sweet cookies.
9. Final Thoughts
Mastering the art of making the best stuffed bell peppers involves selecting fresh ingredients and layering flavors thoughtfully. With this detailed guide, you can confidently create a wholesome, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed for success. Enjoy cooking and savoring every delicious bite!
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Flavor-Packed Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice
A hearty and flavorful stuffed bell peppers recipe featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut off the tops of bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix cooked rice with the cooked beef mixture.
- Stuff each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, top with shredded cheese.
- Place peppers upright in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add diced tomatoes or spices for extra flavor.
- Use any cheese you prefer or have on hand.
- For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or turkey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten-Free (with rice), High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg